Political Tensions Between Thailand and Cambodia Impact Regional Tourism, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 16, 2025

The current border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has significantly disrupted travel in the region. With the holiday season approaching, travelers are increasingly cautious about their holiday plans with regard to travel to the region. The rising violence, curfews imposed on major cities due to increased safety precautions, and the bombings in the province where the Angkor Wat temples stand have shaken the tourist population in the region. The rising tensions between the two countries make travel to the region even more risky.

Rising Tensions and Impact on Thai and Cambodian Tourism

The political and military tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border have created uncertainty for tourists planning to visit these countries. As a result, there has been a noticeable decline in visitor numbers, particularly to Cambodia, which relies heavily on tourism for its economy. Cambodia’s Angkor Wat, one of the world’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites, has witnessed a drop in ticket sales, with a 17% decrease in visitor numbers between June and November 2025.

Tourists who had planned to visit Cambodia are concerned about the ongoing military actions and the safety of their travel routes, prompting many to reconsider their vacations. The conflict has also triggered a ripple effect, with some travelers opting to delay or cancel their trips to Thailand due to the heightened security measures and the ongoing military actions.

Curfews and Increased Airport Screening in Thailand

In response to the violence, Thailand has implemented strict measures in border areas, including a curfew in parts of Trat, a province located near the Cambodian border. Additionally, Thai immigration authorities have ramped up airport security by increasing screening procedures for international arrivals. The authorities are on high alert, particularly for the potential influx of foreign mercenaries, with reports of increased checks at the country’s major airports.

These measures are part of Thailand’s effort to maintain control over the situation and ensure the safety of both locals and visitors. However, the heightened security and curfew have created an atmosphere of uncertainty, leading some tourists to reconsider their plans to visit Thailand and Cambodia during this peak season.

Bombing of Siem Reap Province and the Threat to Angkor Wat

One of the most concerning developments in the conflict was the bombing of Siem Reap province in Cambodia, which houses the Angkor Wat temple complex—one of the country’s most significant cultural and tourism landmarks. Cambodian authorities have accused the Thai air force of striking targets in the area, which is home to a vast number of displaced civilians who have fled their homes due to the fighting.

These airstrikes and the increasing violence along the border have cast a shadow over Cambodia’s tourism sector, especially as the country continues to rely heavily on cultural tourism. The fear and panic caused by the violence, including viral videos showing civilians fleeing airstrikes, have led to growing concerns about the safety of travel to Cambodia and its key tourist sites.

The Broader Impact on Cambodia’s Tourism Economy

Tourism contributes significantly to Cambodia’s economy, making up about 10% of the country’s GDP. With the disruption caused by the ongoing conflict, particularly in areas that are key to the country’s tourism sector, the economic impact is considerable. The drop in visitors to Angkor Wat is a clear indication of the broader effects of the border clashes. Tour operators, hotels, and local businesses are seeing reduced foot traffic, which impacts their revenues and the livelihoods of those who rely on the tourism industry.

The uncertainty surrounding the conflict, coupled with the risk of escalating violence, is further deterring tourists who had planned to visit the region. Tour operators and travel agencies have already reported an increase in cancellations and inquiries about the safety of travel to Thailand and Cambodia, further complicating the tourism landscape during the high season.

Diplomatic Mediation and the Future of the Conflict

The Thai-Cambodian border dispute, rooted in historical territorial disagreements, has escalated in recent months, with both countries blaming each other for the violence. The international community, including the United States, has called for calm and mediation, urging both countries to work together to find a peaceful resolution. However, as of now, diplomatic efforts have had limited success in ending the violence.

The conflict has become a point of national pride for both Thailand and Cambodia, with political leaders using the situation to fuel nationalist sentiments. Thailand’s Prime Minister, Anutin Charnvirakul, has vowed to continue military actions until the country’s security is ensured. Meanwhile, Cambodia’s Prime Minister, Hun Manet, has called for international support in condemning Thailand’s actions, highlighting the broader geopolitical implications of the conflict.

The Impact on Tourism and Long-Term Recovery

For both Thailand and Cambodia, tourism is a critical sector for economic growth. As the conflict continues, the long-term impact on travel to the region is uncertain. If the violence persists, there may be a prolonged decline in tourism, not only from traditional markets like Europe and North America but also from neighboring countries in Southeast Asia.

Tourism stakeholders in both countries will need to collaborate closely to rebuild trust and ensure that the region remains a desirable destination for international travelers. This will likely involve significant investments in security, infrastructure, and crisis management to reassure tourists that their safety and well-being are a priority.

Looking Ahead: Rebuilding Confidence in Southeast Asian Tourism

As Thailand and Cambodia work toward resolving the ongoing conflict, it is crucial that both governments prioritize tourism recovery alongside diplomatic solutions. The tourism industry in Southeast Asia, particularly in regions like Cambodia and Thailand, has a significant role to play in economic recovery, and restoring confidence in travel is essential for long-term success.

Tourism authorities will need to implement strategies to rebuild the sector, focusing on safety, transparency, and promoting alternative destinations within both countries. With careful management, Southeast Asia can overcome the current challenges and continue to thrive as one of the world’s top travel destinations.

Navigating the Challenges of Political Instability in Tourism

The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has also had definite effects on the tourism sector within these nations, especially during the peak holiday seasons. Due to the increased security levels, the tensions at the borders, and the possible damage that might result from the conflict at sites such as Angkor Wat, tourists are showing reluctance to visit these destinations. It will therefore be essential for these nations to concentrate on restoring the tourism sector while ensuring that the security of the tourists is at stake.